A Mansfield couple are gearing up for a driving challenge through northern Italy to help a children’s charity.

Maldwyn and Karen Johnson, a former president of Mansfield Rotary, want to raise £1,500 for Chances for Children – Buttle UK, which helps disadvantaged young people in serious need — and money raised will be spent locally.

The Italian Job Navigational Charity Challenge was launched in 1990 by a group of Mini enthusiasts and has since raised £3m.

They were inspired by famous film The Italian Job and Michael Caine’s immortal words at the end — “hang on a minute… I’ve got a great idea”.

The driving challenge starts in Imola on 9th October and around 50 Minis will travel over nine days to reach Turin without using SatNavs, GPS, or maps.

Fundraisers will get the chance to parade their Minis at the Imola, Monza, Mugello, and other F1 European motoring circuits on a driving adventure through some of Europe’s most-stunning scenery.

Karen said: “I’ve owned Minis since 2002 and have had my current one — a Cooper S convertible, which I love — since 2016.

“We are hoping that the weather is good and we can have the top down in true Italian style on those mountain roads!”

So far the couple have received amper donations from Sytner Mini Leicester; Plastek UK, Forest Town; and JET, which they will auction at the end of the race, with proceeds going to Buttle UK.”

Karen added: “Thank you to everyone who is supporting us.

“BMW Mini let me know about this really worthwhile fundraising event and ending my year as Mansfield Rotary president has enabled me to give the time to take part.

“Having had a lifelong career in education, I am keen to support Buttle UK.”

The charity provides, for example, beds, books, and school uniforms to help children get the best chance in life.

To make a donation and support the couple go to http://bit.ly/karen-maldwyn-italian-job